BELLEVUE – Today, the firefighters from Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond announced their sole endorsement for Senator Patty Kuderer (D-48), the incumbent challenged by Michelle Darnell and Rodney Tom. Kuderer has held the seat since being appointed in early 2017. She previously served in the House of Representatives.

“Senator Kuderer has a proven track record of standing up for workers and first responders. We know we can count on her to have our back, whether it’s advocating cost for living wage jobs, collective bargaining rights, or improving firefighter safety equipment and training. Senator Kuderer’s record puts her head and shoulders above her opponents and we are proud to support her in her re-election campaign,” said Seth Buchanan, Vice President of Kirkland IAFF Local 2545.

Representing firefighters and paramedics, the Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond IAFF Locals serve the three largest communities in the 48th legislative district.

“I am so proud to have the support of the firefighters in my district. Our first responders work tirelessly every day to protect our communities and I cannot thank them enough for their service. I am committed to ensuring that our firefighters have the tools, resources, and support they need to do their jobs and keep us safe,” stated Kuderer.

During her tenure in the Senate, Kuderer has proven herself to be one of the most effective legislators in Olympia. In 2018 alone, six of the bills that she introduced passed, as did dozens of others that she sponsored.